THE EMPIRE OF THE SUN - Asiatic Pagan

Diplomacy: none

The self acclaimed Emperor did not seek to do much over the last half decade. He ruled his nation and ordered a census taken. This done, he looked out over the waters to the mainland, wondering how long peace would last for the Empire of the Sun.

The only other news was that his wife gave birth to a daughter in year 2, but passed away during year 4 from complications of another childbirth.
 

THE JADE DRAGON - Oceanic Pagan

King Shen Fong

Diplomacy: Hunan (hs), Szechwan (ea), Taiping (c)

Shen Tung, once the barbarian warlord known as the Jade Dragon (after the original myth of the founding of his people), decided it was time for a change. No longer would his people cast about like fish in the river. They would settle down, work the fields, build houses, raise livestock and eventually build an empire that would stretch to the sea. Of course, this is but the dream of the House of Shen. Only Destiny knows whether this dream willl come to fruition.

The House of Shen, having the regions of Hubei and Hupei under their sway, decided to call the nascent empire The Jade Dragon. It was much nobler and grander in scope. Shen Tung took the title of King, and decided that the people needed a city as a focal point of the empire. So the port city of Tzu Lang was built along the Yangtze River.

Next, the leaders of the House of Shen went forth to bring other regions under the banner of the Jade Dragon. The King left his pregnant Queen at home, and undertook the journey to Hunan. Some say that it was the simply chance, other felt that the love the King had for the Queen was the cause. But whatever the reason, on the same day that the Queen developed difficulty breathing and lost both the pregnancy and her life, the King suddenly became weak on his left side, and began slurring his speech. The diplomatic contingent quickly started the voyage back home. It is rumored that they both King and beloved Queen breathed their last breaths at the same moment. Regardless, the effect on the negotiations was dramatic. The Hunan leadership felt that Shen Fong had been mocking him. He made it clear that the Jade Dragon would not be controlling the fate of Hunan province any time soon. The King's son Shen Tzu had greater luck in Szechwan, and there was some concession on the part of Taiping to the overtures of the Jade Dragon representative.

Meanwhile, at home, the Heir to the throne quickly assumed the mantle of King without any difficult, as the nation was still in shock over losing both Majesties at the same time. Shen Fong, now King, administered the nation as he oversaw construction of the city of Tzu Lang. He mourned his parents privately, always showing the outward presence of a King of a proud dynasty, which he was.
 

THE MIDDLE KINGDOM OF HONAN - Asiatic Pagan

[ELIMINATED]

Diplomacy: Hopei (c, then revolt), Anhui (a, then revolt)

Emperor Chi was worried about his Western neighbor. Chi was one of the most able warriors in the area, and his men would follow him to the ends of the world. He gathered his forces in Shentung and waited. He did not need to wait long. For in May of year 1, the Jinn Army came in sight. Chi knew he was the better strategist, but he was concerned about being outnumbered 2:1. Chi's had also heard rumor that the Jinn army was well trained, but Chi had some fortifications and prepared his defense around them.

In early May, the 1200 Honan cavalry (half light) and 2200 infantry (over a quarter light) looked out over the simple forts that defended Shentung province. They saw the host of Jinn assembled on the field before them. 1600 regular cavalry and 800 light cavarly supported 4400 infantry. They met in a large clearing and the battle began. Chi recognized the personal banner of the Jinn Royal Family, and realized that both the King and Heir had taken the field against him. Despite his military prowess, Chi realized that his men were simply not up to the task. He realized that his both the mounted and foot soldiers were being devastated by the relentless Jinn offensive. Were it not for the defensive fortifications, they would have easily been overrun. When the Jinn cavalry was able to outflank the Honan left, Chi knew that Shentung was lost. He watched as his army retreated to the homeland. He ordered the troops in the fortifications to leave their forts and join the mobile army. In the end, Emperor Chi had lost half his cavalry and about 60% of his infantry. He was forced to retire to Anhui. The Jinn army had had minimal losses to its infantry.

King Lao Che-Jinn and his son quickly set up a puppet government in Shentung, and rallied the stragglers from the army. They then pushed on to the Homeland of the Middle Kingdom. The caught Emperor Chi still pulling together the last of his retreating men for a stand against the Jinn. Chi hoped that the greater fortifications in the homeland would provide better results than the battle for Shentung. But he now faced 4:1 mounted odds, and greater than 2:1 inferiority on foot. The battle was again quick and decisive. The Honan army died valiently defending their homes, but despite Chi's ability, they could not prevail. When the fighting was over, the Middle Kingdom army was left with less than 1000 cavalry and 2200 infantry, while the Jinn had minimal losses. The Jinn pacified the Honan homeland, but the natives of the region were not to be quelled so easily. And Lao Che-Jinn was in the field fighting, not at home running his nation. In year 5, the local population rose up in revolt, but this was easily crushed as the entire Jinn army remained in the region to prevent such an uprising.

While the Middle Kingdom was being torn apart, Lord Wang, the famed herbalist, and the Honan Heir, Prince Chian, traveled to Hopei. They were soon joined by the Jinn leaders, Sung Lei and Tan Szu. An interesting negotiation began to take place between Prince Chian (of Honan) and Prince Sung Lei and Tan Szu (both of Jinn) and the Hopei warlord. As time passed, and the results of the battle in the Middle Kingdom became known, the tone of negotiations took a more angered turn. Both parties spent several years in the region, and it was generally felt that Chian had the upper hand. This is predominantly due to both Jinn leaders developing a severe abdominal ailment, causing them to miss a good deal of the discussions. In the end, the Hopei warlord did not give much to either side. He agreed that if the Middle Kingdom were to survive he would allow them to maintain a claim on his lands. The negotiations in Anhui went much more favorably, and a full alliance was established. But with the conquest of the Middle Kingdom assured, the Anhui reneged, and the Hopei claim became moot.
 

THE JINN DYNASTY (Previously The Kingdom of Shensi) - Asiatic Pagan

King Lao Che-Jinn

Diplomacy: Hopei (ne)

King Lao Che-Jinn was a bright man. He knew that eventually, the Middle Kingdom of Honan would grow to be a formidable power. And he feared that they would eventually grow so strong that they would challenge the Jinn Dynasty. As it is always wiser to cut off the head of the snake when it is small, he orders his son and heir, Ming Che-Jinn, to gather the entire Jinn army and march against the Middle Kingdom. The King was surprised and disappointed by how few troops he could muster, but he knew that they were well trained. He accompanied his son to bring the battle to the Middle Kingdom, and greater glory to the Jinn.

Word returned that the mighty Jinn had conquered Shentung easily, then pushed on to the homeland of the Middle Kingdom, taking the region, as well. There was great rejoicing, despite the local population in the Honan homeland rising up then being crushed again. The heir was later overheard talking about the battles, and how he had realized the tactical superiority of his enemy, Emperor Chi. He studied Chi's tactics again and again. For next time, he would use some of them himself.

On the diplomatic front, Lao Che-Jinn sent his son, Sung Lei and his advisor, Tan Szu to the region of Hopei. Upon their arrival, they found that a representative from the Middle Kingdom had already entered into negotiations. Both sides tried to woo the Hopei leader, but Sung Lei's and Tan Szu's efforts were hampered by the development of a prolonged illness characterized by abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Interestingly, both developed blue fingernails, a common side effect of Cashgas root ingestion, but neither of the two had ever had an such exposure, nor was the plant native to Hopei. Eventually, they recovered, but by that time the Honan Prince had obtained some minimal commitment from Hopei.
 

THE KINGDOM OF PANDYA - Oceanic Pagan

King Sunratta

Diplomacy: Chera (t)

It is said that in the depths of time, the seven Sons of Pandita landed on the shores of Pandya after a journey from far to the North. There, each became the forefather of one of the seven castes of Pandyan society. The eighth and lowest caste, is descended from the demons of the forest that the Sons of Pandita overcame after a mighty battle, where the Sea Gods came to their aid.

For many centuries, the Pandyan were simple village folk scattered throughout the lands of Pandya and Chola, until the coming of a Vasivarhaman, who united all the tribes into a single great kingdom.

King Vasivarhaman I dreamed of the Kingdom of Pandya expanding to cover all of Southern India. But unfortunately it was not to come to pass in his lifetime. For in year 4, he succumbed to fever. While Prince Sunratta had been named heir, there was some mutterings. But he quickly took control, taking over the rule of the nation from his father. Before his death, King Vasivarhaman I had sired two daughters, but upon his death, the Queen retired to her family's estates in Chola, taking the children with her. The heir meanwhile took a wife from Pandya and sired a son. But after a miscarriage, his wife died from infection, leaving him with a young son to raise alone.

Despite the desparate times, the old King's vision continued to be fulfilled. Lord Savabhuna successfully conducted a census of the nation's assets, and Prince Maharatta rode with 500 men into Chera and diplomatically secured the region as tributary. And finally, a lasting tribute to Vasivarhaman I, the port city of Travindaram was constructed in Pandya. May all proclaim his greatness from within its hallowed halls.
 

THE  KINGDOM OF KHEMER - Oceanic Pagan

King Haji Alamehli

Diplomacy: Surin (t)

Khemer being the only organized nation on the peninsula is destined for honor and riches. Such are the thoughts of King Haji Alamehli. To facilitate this, the King has built the great city of Khemer on the river. He also sent a cadre of leaders to Surin to secure relations with that region. And Surin becomes a tributary of Khemer.

Prior to his departure to Surin, the Heir, Prince Tajir Alamehli was married. He left for the diplomatic mission shortly after the wedding, and received the wonderful news after he had arrived in Surin that his wife was pregnant. Soon thereafter, she gave birth to a son. The King was also busy expanding his lineage. His wife had more difficulty than Tajir's, and had a miscarriage before giving birth to a son. But a series of complications after the delivery left her unable to walk. She died soon thereafter.

King Haji has noted that many of the advances in education seem to be slipping away from the people. There is a dullness to their thought. Perhaps it is just the weather...
 

THE CONCLAVE OF THE GANGES (Previously The Kingdom of Rajput) - Oceanic Pagan

King Hamari

Diplomacy: Tarain (ea), Jaunpur (a), Chandela (ea)

With the onset of increased population and a need to share the available food and land resources near the Upper Ganges River Valley, the Conclave has formed from a group of various tribes North of the river in the plains known by the ancient name of Rajput. These tribes, desiring the benefits derived from mutual cooperation, hope to work together and provide for their collective defense versus hostile enemies and to strengthen their political importance among the nearby  emergence of local peoples. In the hopes of finding further friendly allies, the emissaries of the new civilization have begun to explore and, perhaps, expand their influence. Time will tell whether the benefits of peace can enshroud those within the calm serenity of the Northern Indus Valley. So begins the Dawn of Civilization for those within the Conclave.

King Hamani was a King among Kings. He realized that to prove this to the known world, he must send out his emissaries to the surrounding peoples of the sub-continent. So leaving his son and heir, Sudakkar, in charge, he ventured forth to Tarain. After spending several years enticing the locals, they agree to economically link their futures with that of Rajput. The King himself learned a few things about negotiating. His son, Madura has similar results traveling down to Chandela. But the most striking gains were those obtained in Jaunpur. For here he sent Kurahtra, a man reknown for his singing voice. The Pasha of Jaunpur was so taken with Kurahtra, he pledged full allegiance to the Rajput, and swore to act on the commands of King Hamari.

Meanwhile, back in Rajput, Prince Sudakkar, organized a massive undertaking to count the peoples and possesions of the nation. This being done, he settled back into ruling over the nation that would one day be his. He also married a local woman of noble blood, but during her first pregnancy she developed foul blood. No amount of bleeding by the court physicians could aid her. She died leaving the Prince without issue. This royal court was further saddened by the news that Kurahtra was killed by roving bandits while traveling in Jaunpur. The Pasha sent regrets, and a further confirmation of his dedication to King Hamari.

But the Kingdom's losses were not over yet. Once Madura, the King's second son, realized that with the King in far off Tarain, even with his brother ruling the nation, he realized that he had an opportunity to go his own way and make a future for himself. You see, he knew that it was his brother, Sudakkar, that would inherit the nation, not he. And so, Madura left for points unknown, looking to carve a nation for himself.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GAUR - Oceanic Pagan

No turn submitted. Picked up by new player.

THE KARA-KHATAI KINGDOM - Asiatic Pagan

King Ormin

Diplomacy: Otrar (c), Turkmen (t)

King Ormin knew that in time, the people of the steppes would rise up and try to move to the West. He also knew that Kara-Khatai was in danger of being overrun if the hordes came upon them. So he decided that in order to dissuade the horse peoples from swallowing his nation, he must present it to them as a difficult mouthful to chew. To this end, he order the construction of a grand city, Samarkhand, to be built as a shining beacon in the East. For this city will one day represent all the greatness that is Kara-Khatai.

But the King also knew that he would need to rally the support of the surrounding tribes. He sent his trusted general to Turkmen and was able to gain the region as tributary. He went to Otrar to talk with the local chieftain. But it seems that the Otrar lord was concerned that by banding together enmass, it would attract the notice of the roving steppe peoples. He was only willing to agree that King Ormin had some claim to the region, but no more.

The King was also disappointed in an attempt to get a better idea of the extent of his realm. For he tried for a year to gather information on the numbers of people, goats and ducks in the realm, but after spending a lot of GP, was unable to accurately get a count.
 

THE KINGDOM OF PERSIA - Asiatic Pagan

King Cyrus

Diplomacy: Dasht' Kavir (nt), Zagros (c), Media (nt)

Cyrus looked out across the fertile plains of Persia. To the Southwest, he knew there were more fertile lands though they followed the other Gods. To the East there was desert. But were not the Gods of Asia the most powerful? Did they not provide their faithful followers with the ability to bring the truth to others? With this in mind, the King set about a plan of expansion into the Oceanic Pagan regions to the West.

He sent Cambyses, the Heir to the Kingdom on the difficult task of gaining the trust of the desert people in Dasht' Kavir. Cambyses trekked grudgingly through the sand and met with countless chieftains and local leaders. In the end, he was able to secure the region at a nominal level. His brother, Bardiya, had similar luck in the West. It seems that the Medians had some suspicion of the Asiatic Noble that spent several years with them. There was even less success in the fertile region of Zagros, where Persia could only establish a claim on the land.

If Cyrus was disappointed on the diplomatic front, he was certainly happy domestically. For not only was he able to personally oversee the construction of a city, Persepolis, along the Old Silk Road, but his wife, after a series of miscarriages, gave birth to twins in the year 2, and another son in the year 4.
 

THE KINGDOM OF MESOPOTAMIA - African Pagan

King Yousef

Diplomacy: Hahmar (t); Levant (aw)

Mesopotamia is a nation sandwiched between many other nations. King Yousef has worked hard to foster good relations with several of his neighbors. So he was not surprised when the request for Mesopotamian cavalry came from Queen Amohsis of the Children of the Nile. Believing that the proposed plan would allow him to eventually expand to the West, he agreed. He personally led his cavalry through Carhae to Aleppo. There were several tense moments in the trip, as the Carhae militia had gathered, then backed down before Yousef's 2500 or so cavalry.

Upon arriving in Carchemish (previously Aleppo), the King pushed into Lebanon with the Carchemish infantry. The King suffered no losses, and morale was high amonst his troops. The combined army then moved into Levant, meeting the Queen herself at the head of a large force. Between the three, there was little contest. Of course, Yousef will always remember the night that he was riding with Prince Mago of Carchemish, and that young Levant sprout (could not have been more than 12 years old) started winding up a rock in a sling. Mago had said that the boy would as likely send the stone amongst his own men. Moments later, it was Yousef dragging the Carchemish Prince back to his tent to tend to a nasty wound on his forehead.

But soon, the army was on the march again. This time into Jordan and Syria. These regions were taken with significantly more fighting, but the Mesopotamian cavarly again survived mostly intact. As these regions were being pacified by the other nations, King Yousef took his troops home, arriving in the middle of the year 5. He only heard later that Jordan had successfully rebelled from Queen Amohsis. Yousef was happy that he was so far away. For the Queen was not terribly present when she was victorious. He imagined that in defeat she was much worse.

So King Yousef looked in on the progress of the city of Jakal that he had ordered built. It was progressing well. He was also happy to learn that his son, Jafar had secured the region of Hahmar as a tributary.
 

THE KINGDOM OF CARCHEMISH (Previously The Kingdom of Aleppo) - African Pagan

King Xeusiarch I

Diplomacy: Edessa (ea), Cilisia (t); Syria (p), Lebanon (pt); Levant (aw)

King Xeusiarch I sent emissaries to the Cilisia and Edessa. Interestingly, both promised a royal wedding to the heir. But as the heir, Mago (the elder) had gone to Edessa, his offer was considered more seriously. Both regions gave strong indications that they are interested in fostering a relationship with Carchemish.

During these negotiations, the King received a message from the Queen of the Children of the Nile, proposing a bold plan to further expand Carchemish to the South. Within days, the plan was agreed upon. The armies of Carchemish mustered under the leadership of Mago (the younger), numbering around 3500 infantry. In June of year 1, the Mesopotamian cavalry joined the force, and they entered Lebanon. There was no real contest, as the combined army destroyed the local militia and established a puppet government which answered to Carchemish. Next the Carchemish/Mesopotamian forces invaded the Jewish region of Levant, and supported the Children of the Nile army, led by the Great Queen Amohsis. While they suffered no losses, Prince Mago was wounded by a young Levant slinger. Despite this, he carried on to continue the invasion of Jordan. The fighting in Jordan and Syria was more fierce than previously, but Mago held his own despite his injuries (he retains a scar in the middle of his forehead). In the end, Carchemish pacified the region of Syria, and Mago remained with the garrison to keep the peace. Rumor arrived towards the end of year 5 that the region of Jordan had destroyed a garrison of 2000 men to reclaim their freedom. Mago retained a strong level of control in Syria.
 

THE JORDANIAN KINGDOM - African Pagan

King Phineas

Diplomacy: none

King Phineas decided to bolster the defensive army in Jordan. He put his son, Pilbec in charge of the army, and went about his business as King. The first tragedy that struck was the death of his wife, Philia. But this was to pale next to the massive invasion that Jordan suffered.

In the year 4, King Phineas received a message from his son to come immediately, for there was a massive army approaching. The King strapped on his battle gear, and joined his son on the battlefield. The King immediately saw the problem.

Swelled by the allied armies of Carchemish (previously Aleppo) and Mesopotamia, Queen Amohsis led her forces into Jordan, where King Phineas and Prince Pilbec stood ready with an army of over 4000 infantry and 2600 cavalry. But this army was no match to the combined forces under the command of Queen Amohsis, often considered one of the best warrior (of any sex) in the world. She had over 8000 infantry and almost 6000 cavalry in the combined armies. In the course of a month of pitched battles, the Jordanian homeland fell. Prince Pilbec's men were routed from the field, and the King realized that his only hope for survival was to retreat to Syria and hope that the invaders would not pursue. But this was not to be. For while the Jordanians had several months to regroup their forces, the Queen's army moved on. Again, the Jordanian fought, and again they lost. Both King and son were forced to retreat and give up their nation. They lost staggering numbers of men.

But the viscious Queen of the Nile People had not counted on the tenacity of the Jordanian people. For almost a year after the Jordan was subjugated, the people rose up and overthrew the garrison that had been left in the region. King Phineas returned home, but the future did not look bright for The Jordanian Kingdom.
 

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF RHODES - African Pagan

King Laius

Diplomacy: Phyrgia (ea, then revolts)

King Laius sees that the people of Rhodes need strength and spiritual guidance. He decides that they need a capital city that will provide both. So he and his advisors draw up plans for a massive city. Unfortunately, the plans were misplaced, and construction was delayed for several weeks. But once the plans were found, the first stones were laid for the "lost" city of Atlantis.

He also sent diplomats to the region of Phyrgia, where they were successful in convincing the local leaders to form an economic alliance. But once the representatives from Rhodes left, certain volitile members of the Phyrgian nobility rose up and overthrew the current leadership. They declared that they did not see any reason to provide Phyrgian gold to Rhodes when it was so far away, and would be unlikely to be able to come to their aid in times of need.

At home, the King was able to sire twin daughters in year 4, then another daughter in year 5. His wife died unexpectedly at the end of year 5. The Heir, Oedipus, also married, but lost his wife during childbirth.

Despite all these setbacks, the King was still optimistic about his plans to spread the true faith to distant lands. For he had sent his beloved lieutenant, Canopus to Cyprus and Kyklades to convert the natives. But again misfortune plagued this venture as well. For after traveling to Cyprus and finding the entire population already following African Paganism, tragedy struck on the journey to Kyklades. Canopus who was traveling in one of the Rhodes' swiftest ships, noted three ships in the distance. He decided that he would move past them as quickly as possible to continue his mission. He was surprised that they gave chase, for who would challenge the sea power of Rhodes. But conflict was not his goal, so he loaded sail on the masts and pushed on. After about a week, his second in command noted excess strain on the main mast. Despite shoring up the mast, it began to show signs of cracking.

"We must turn and fight, for we have no chance of fleeing", said Canopus. And with that they smartly came about and made a rapid dash at the following navy. The men of Rhodes felt that they would easily overcome the Greek light warships (for as they closed, they were able to identify the Greek standard). On the first pass, Canopus ordered arrows to be coated with pitch, lit and fired into the sails of the nearest ship. The ship caught fire, and retired from the fight. In the hours that then passed, Canopus fought valiantly, but the cracked mast hindered his maneuverability. And the enemy flagship was able to ram the Rhodesian warship below the waterline. Canopus was thrown from the ship on impact, and died in the water.

THE KINGDOM OF TROY - Asiatic Pagan

King Alexander

Diplomacy: Paphlagonia (ea), Galatia (t)

Alexander orders the construction of the port city of Troy, for which the nation is named, thereby completing the first in a series of moves that will bring fame and fortune the Kingdom of Troy. Next, he arranges a marriage between his son and heir, Paris, to a princess in Paphlagonia. Paris travels to Paphlagonia, and spends a number of years in the court there. Initially he spends time with his wife, siring both a son and a daughter, before his wife dies in labor with a third child. But he had made a great impression on the Paphlagonians, and they considered his children a living link with the Kingdom of Troy. So after a number of years of negotiating, they agree to an economic treaty with Troy.

Prince Aeneas travels to distant Galatia and secures that region as a tributary. But being so far from Bithnia, and with no one ruling the nation, both the Prince and the region are tempted to sever their ties. But cooler heads prevail, and both Prince and region remain with the nation. Alexander when he found out about the situation realized that he must keep a more active role in the running of his nation. Perhaps the reason for his lack of attention had to do with the loss of his dear wife to complications of pregnancy.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GREECE - European Pagan

King Zechariah

Diplomacy: Kyklades (ea), Morea (a)

King Zechariah had a simple plan. He would gently push the extent of his realm into the Eastern Mediterranean. Yet how to do so without entering into conflict with all the other upstart nations surrounding him? The solution was straightforward and without guile. He and his son, Alexander, went to negotiate with the people of Kyklades and Morea, respectively, while he had two separate navies patrolling the nearby waters to discourage other potential rivals.

While patroling the Aegean Sea, Quintin, the King's brother spotted sails on the horizon. His orders were clear. "Turn away any attempts to land in the Kyklades, peacefully if possible". Quintin gave orders for the his ships to intercept the opposing navy.

"Only one sail, your Highness!", came the cry from the lookout. Quintin grew confident that this situation could be dealt with peacefully. For he outnumbered the opposing side 3:1, and both sides consisted of light warships.

"By the Gods! They're Rhodesian!", was the next report from above. A grim silence was spread across the deck of Quintin's flagship. For it was well known that the Rhodesian navy was one of the most capable in the Med. This may not be so easy after all.

The Prince raised flags indicating that the flagship would parley with the Rhodes ship, and the other two should get into position to flank the vessel. As the Rhodesian ship came closer, Quentin made ready to be lowered in a longship. But the opposing ship made no effort to heave to. As Quentin realized that they were putting on more sail, he gave the orders to pursue. He gave chase for 6 days and nights. Finally on the dawn of the 7th day, they were able to close the gap. In a surprise move, the Rhodesian ship cut back and let loose a volley of flaming arrows that landed in the sails of one of the Greek ships. The ship had to withdraw to put out the flames. The next few hours saw intense fighting. The battle was finally ended when Quentin was able to ram the Rhodesian ship below the waterline. They were able to fish out the body of the Rhodesian captain, he was dead. In the end, Quentin was able to repair his damaged ship, and return to port. He was met with cheers and celebration at defeating the dread pirates of Rhodes, who were obviously up to no good in the Aegean..

Back on the diplomatic front, there was much activity. Zechariah was an excellent negotiator, and came away with a strong economic agreement with Kyklades. But Alexander, the heir to the throne of Greece, showed that he could bargain as well. During the course of the talks, he fell in love with a Morean princess. Over the course of several years, he was able to convince the region of Morea to enter into a formal alliance with Greece. The celebration was capped off by the marriage of Alexander to the daughter of the Morean ruler.
 

THE KINGDOM OF THRACE - European Paganism

King Alexander Pogue

Diplomacy: Bulgaria (fa), Dobruja (ne), Serbia (ne), Bosnia (fa, then revolts)

King Alexander was a devout man. He burned green wood at the alters to the Gods on the Autumn Equinox. He sacrificed a goat every Winter Solstice to show that during the darkest days, he would give what sustainance he had to the Gods. Yet, he looked out on the world and was concerned. Concerned about the spirit of his fellow man. He was also saddled with the mantle of King. He realized that to effectively provide for the people, he must be as a beacon to them.

He decided that two things would allow the people to see him as their guiding light, a great city, and a thorough accounting. So he began construction on the city of Delphi, and ordered His son, Cantia Pogue to conduct a thorough count of the people in the realm. Unfortunately, his wife passed away early in year 1.

The King also sent his son, Octorius, and his minister, Raymond Sartius to improve relations with the surrounding regions. While Octorius had some initial success with the Bulgarians, the people of Dobruja were not interested in Alexander's words of piety. Similarly, Raymond could not sway the people of Serbia, and when he spoke with the ruler of Bosnia, he was able to convince them to become a fief of Thrace, but once he crossed back over the mountains, the reach of Alexander was not enough to keep them faithful.

At the end of 5 years, Alexander looked out from his tent and was disturbed. He was encouraged by the building of Delphi, and resigned to the lackluster diplomatic efforts, but other things troubled his mind. He considered himself a stout religious man, honest and true, in a time that many were not. Things could not go on like this forever. The people needed direction. Not just his people, but all man. They need to be given the path of purity and enlightenment.

"I have seen the plan, my Lords. It shall be done!"

Hopefully, he wasn't alone...
 

THE KINGDOM OF KILOTSK - European Pagan

King Petro

Diplomacy: Pechneg (ne), Lithuania (c)

The Kingdom of Kilotsk was formed when King Nicholas married the only child of King Ericson of Polotsk, Princess Anastasia. The death of Ericson brought about the union of the two small Kingdoms. This union was not without conflict, as the brother of Ericson, Igor, attempted to take control of Polotsk in a rebellion. Kiev's war hero, Vadamier put down the rebellion and killed Igor in a bloody battle that saw a Polotsk national army help in the victory over the rebellious Igor's small army. Igor loyalists still exist in Polotsk and the surrounding regions, perhaps waiting for their chance to reclaim their lands.

King Nicholas had no intention of letting this happen. If fact, he ordered his somn Michael to move to Polotsk with a small army and make sure that peace was maintained. While King Nicholas ruled over his nation, the heir, Petro, travelled to Pechneg. But his time there was cut short by the death of Nicholas. Once Petro heard the news, he rushed back to Kiev to assume the throne. Despite some initial grumblings by the old Igor supporters, the mantle of King was passed on without difficulty. Nicholas spent the remainder of his time ruling in his father's stead. Due to his early departure from the discussions, Petro was not able to secure any relationship with Pechneg. The general, Vadamier, was able to convince Lithuania to agree to a claimed status. It seems that Igor's people had some sway in Lithuania.
 

THE UNITED TRIBES OF THE FOREST KINGDOM (UTFK) (Previously Kingdom of Poland) - European Pagan

King Nikodemus

Diplomacy: Bialoweza (t), Masuria (t), Danzig (a), Kauyavia (nt)

Nikodemus has a vision of the future of the United Tribes of the Forest Kingdom. His vision, a gift from the Earth Mother, has the United Tribes expanding to the Sea in the North and reaping from the land all that it can offer. To build great edifices to the Earth Mother. To demonstrate her strength and love for all of the Forest Peoples. This is what has been promised to King Nikodemus as his right... as his obligation.

But first, he must spread word of the unification of the Forest People. He and his sons and trusted advisors each go off in separate directions, to entice the various tribes to join his cause, the Earth Mother's cause. The King, himself, goes to Masuria and secures a tributary relationship. A similar relationship is forged with Bialoweza. And while the Kauyavia peoples are less impressed with the UTFK vision, the tribes in Danzig have taken to the cause. They are told of visions of ships entering Danzig at the point of a great city. And they shall be a shining jewel in the North, rivaling the many peoples in the warm climes to the South. Danzig formally allies themselves with the UTFK.

The King, feeling fulfilled as he puts his dreams into action, is again blessed with children. This time twins, a boy and a girl. It seems that good times are ahead for the UTFK.

THE KINGDOM OF THE SVEAR - European Pagan

King Thorfinn Ivarsson

Diplomacy: Halland (ea), Uppsala (ne)

The Svear are a mighty people of proud heritage. Ivar, the now long dead King, has left his son, Thorfinn, a nation protected from the mainland and island peoples by great stretches of water. King Thorfinn embarks on a plan to bring greatness to this Northern nation. First, he orders construction of a great hall on the coast of the Skaggarak Sea. This massive construction leads to artisans and workers migrating to serve the King in his capital. Before long, there sits a collection of shops, houses and docks, never before seen in Scandinavia. Thorfinn honors his father by naming the city, Ivarvold.

Next, he orders his heir, Halfdan Gunnarsson to count the people and then open discussions with the Northern clans in Halland. Halfdan spends a good deal of time trying to get accurate counts of the number of people, cows and chickens in the nation. After spending a year on this project, he realizes that not one chicken was counted in Smaland. The census taking effort was a failure. The king will not like the fact that all that GP was wasted! Halfdan, a gifted speaker, was able to redeem himself by getting the Clanchief of the Hallanders to sign an economic agreement with the Svear.

Meanwhile, Thorfinn went North to Uppsala and briefly discusses relations with this border region. While they were impressed with the King's vision for the Svear, they did not agree to any formal ties with Thorfinn's people. When the King returned home to find that the census was not complete, his anger was great. This turned to grief when on three separate occassions, his wife, Helga gave birth to stillborn infants. But the ultimate birth of a healthy daughter put him in such good spirits that he forgave Halfdan's incompetence (it did not hurt that the nation would benefit from the increased income from Halland).
 

THE KINGDOM OF FRANCE - European Pagan

King Merovich

Diplomacy: Vermandois (c), Burgundy (ea), Flanders (c)

"Greater glory to France!" With this motto, King Merovich sends his sons and lieutenants out to gather more lands for the Kingdom. His sons, Childeric I and Lantechilde head North to gain access to the coast. Childeric I is able to lay a claim to the region of Vermandois, but could get them to agree to nothing more. Lantechilde had similar results, but not without difficulty. He initially was welcomed into the Flemish Chieftains home. But soon the arrival of the Crown Prince of Avalon and the King of Avalon's chief advisor, made the negotiations more difficult. In the end, both sides laid claim to the region, neither gaining the upper hand.

Meanwhile, to the South, Merovich's able general, Audefleda, was able to convince the region of Burgandy to economically enter the nation.

While his underlings were out bringing "greater glory", the King personally oversaw the collection of information about his realm. In the end, he was quite happy to realize that his Kingdom was more prosperous than he had imagined. His dreams of increased riches from the tax revenue was shattered when his wife, then 38 weeks pregnant, began complaining of shortness of breath. She began coughing up blood and within days had died. The baby did not survive.
 

THE KINGDOM OF LORRAINE - European Pagan

King Gearald

Diplomacy: Holland (ea), Friesland (t), Brabant (ea)

King Gearald of Lorraine. A name that strikes fear into the hearts of the Bavarians and French, against whom he has waged war over the years. As head of the Alamanni people, he has brought together a confederation of Germanic peoples to fight against encroachment of their rightful lands. The King decides that for now, he will use the carrot rather than the stick to bring even more of the Germanic peoples into the shining light that is his rule over Lorraine.

The King personally oversees a delagation to Holland. You can imagine his surprise (and anger) to witness the arrival of the Alban diplomats. For what right do these Northern Islanders have coming to his lands. Even more an affront, Alba sends a boy to conduct these negotiations. In the end, Lorraine is able to secure economic ties to Holland, but the King will always believe he would have done even better had it not been for that wet-behind-the-ears Alban.

Lord Angus and Prince Fearghus are sent on separate missions to bring more tribes under the Lorraine banner. Angus heads to Friesland where he secures the region as a tributary to Lorraine. Fearghus has even greater success, bringing Brabant into the realm economically... full assimilation is sure to follow.

After a brief trip to Alsace, the heir to the Lorraine throne, Prince Micheil remained at home and conducted a thorough accounting of all the peoples of the united tribes. No small task, but Micheil is an able man, destined for greatness. To ensure his lineage, he marries a noble woman of Alcase and within two years of their marriage, they have a son. Unfortunately, during a complicated second delivery, both mother and newborn pass away. Yet there is another generation to rule the Alamanni people.
 

THE KINGDOM OF BAVARIA  - European Pagan

King Ferdinand

Diplomacy: Thuringia (ea), Bohemia (nt, then revolts), Swabia (ne), Austria (t)

King Ferdinand enjoyed going out amongst his people. He would often watch the farmers bringing in the wheat from the fields in Franconia, or smile as the young Bavarian shepherds tended their flock. He was sure in his belief that the Gods were behind him. For did the Goddess of rain not bless his lands with gentle showers to allow the peoples to have all their needs met? Had not the Gods of War rested from their endless quest to bring conflict between Bavaria and Lorraine? Even now, Ferdinand has granted permission for merchants to carry goods between the two nations.

The King sent messages to other local tribes. He was rewarded with the region of Austria agreeing to tributary status with Bavaria. Yet despite sending one of his best men to the region, he is unable to secure any treaty with Swabia. More concerning, after spending several years across the mountains in Bohemia, the heir, Gustav, was able to make arrangements with the local leaders. Yet once Gustav left, the tribes decided to forgo that relationship. Perhaps Ferdinand's reach simply could not extend that far. The King, himself, was the most successful. He convinced the Thuringians to provide economic support to Bavaria.

Yet Ferdinand realized that more must be done to give Bavaria the power which the Gods desired for it. The King decided that to rule he must have a capital. So he ordered construction started on the city of Munich. Soon there was incredible activity at the chosen site. In five short years, Ferdinand truly had a center for his government. He was a happy man. For he was blessed by the Gods to be the King of this nation, and to be husband to his queen, Maria I.
 

KINGDOM OF ALBA - European Pagan

King Dougal

Diplomacy: Holland (ne), Holstein (t)

King Dougal, Great King of the North, prepares his nation to face its future. He personally oversees the counting of sheep and other subjects of Alba. Once completed, he rules from his Great Hall in Strathclyde. While running the nation, he is overjoyed to discover his wife pregnant, yet when complications arise, and she takes with fever, Dougal knows all to well the result. For the Queen of Alba passed away in the year 2, while pregnant with Dougal's child.

Aongus, a young man that had impressed the King with his words and actions, to conduct diplomacy on the mainland. Aongus' abilities are quickly tested, as he finds representatives from Lorraine already in discussion with the Chieftain of Holland. In fact, it is the very King of Lorraine himself. Aongus proudly marches in to the banquet table and is announced. He is surprised at the anger he sees in the eyes of the Lorraine King. Yet, stoutheartedly he presses his case. He has greater luck in Holstein, where he is able to secure a modest treaty with the local leaders.
 

THE KINGDOM OF AVALON - European Pagan

King Mordred

Diplomacy: Flanders (c), Wessex (a)

King Uther Pendragon sent his trusted advisor, Merlin across the English Channel to Flanders with his son, Mordred. Upon arriving, they found the Prince Lantechild of France already taking with the ruler of Flanders. They avidly began countering the offers made by France. During the Flemish talks, the Avalon contingent received word that King Uther Pendragon had died, and that there was unrest in the Kingdom. They left, having staked a claim in the region, and hurried back to Sussex. Upon arriving, there was pandemonium all around them. Several of the minor feudal lords had armed their troops and open clashes were taking place in Anglia.

Merlin and Mordred discussed several options, including crushing any rebellious upstarts with the national army. But Mordred decided that using the army may make the situation worse, throwing the nobles into open rebellion. He, therefore, decided to have a grand coronation and invite all the minor nobility. A lavish ceremony and a number of key leaders (the first being Merlin) presenting themselves on bended knee before Mordred convinced the agitating Anglia nobility to swear fealty, as well.

The new King and Merlin decide to continue their diplomatic mission. They moved on to Wessex, where after three years of intense negotiations, they convinced the Duke of Wessex to become fully allied with Avalon. In the court of Avalon, it is thought that the success in Wessex was due to Mordred's ability to contain the highly volatile Anglia nobility. The newest concern for the young King was Merlin's concern that the hold on Flanders is very tenuous given the great distance across the Channel.
 

THE KINGDOM OF DURHAM  - European Pagan

King Egbert the Bald

Diplomacy: Gwynedd (nt), Lancashire (nt), Lothian (aw)

While the people of Durham do not naturally take to the sea, Egbert the Bald, their King, has realized that they are intimately tied to it. He, therefore, begins construction on a series of facilities that will allow him to keep ships safe from the weather and even allow the building of simple ships. But Egbert's true goals are to expand the nation into lands within the island. To that end, he orders his military general, Earl Gilbert Beringar, to amass the national army and march into Lothian.

The battle to pacify Lothian was going to be difficult. Earl Gilbert was an able general, and his troops followed him willingly. But the Lothians were numerous. The odds were not on Gilberts side. He was outnumbered 3:2. but he had around 1000 cavalry, where the Lothians had none. Plus most of the Lothians were light troops. The Earl felt that his chances were good. Gilbert personally led the cavarly into the trees along the flanks. At his side rode Prince John the Stout, the Durham heir. The infantry pushed in through the trees.

But the Earl had not fully realized how uneven the ground was in Lothian. Nor did he understand that the Lothian light infantry would refuse to engage them head on, but rather attack in lightening forays, then fade back into the woods. For this is exactly what they did. The Lothians would engage the left flank of cavarly, inflict some damage, then flee before support could arrive. The terrain made it so that the Earl's cavalry could not effectively surround them, nor aid the rest of the army. For several weeks, the Durham soldiers endured these surprise attacks. But after a particularly heavy encounter where the Durham army was surprised, and suffered heavy losses, the army routed. The Earl and the Heir were able to regroup, but after counting their losses, they realized that they had lost over 1000 men, while the Lothians had lost only 800. This placed the remaining odds at 3:1 against, and the will of the men was broken. He returned to Northumbria unsuccessful. And the Lothians have sworn vengeance against Durham.

Egbert also sent Earl Ranulf Dod and his sons, Stephen and Ethelred to use less forceful methods to bring other surrounding regions into the fold. Unfortunately, while in Lancashire in year 3, Earl Ranulf awoke with feelings of pain in his chest. By midmorning, he had difficulty breathing, and by dusk he was dead. Prince Ethelred was left to carry on negotiations. Not being as good a diplomat as Earl Ranulf, Etherlred was only able to secure a nominal connection to Lancashire. Stephen had similar success in Gwynedd.

The King ruled Durham from Northumbria, and he and Emma, the Queen, had two children, a boy and a girl. Unfortunately, Emma had a series of lost pregnancies, and died during a delivery in year 5. The child did not survive.
 

THE GREEN TRIBE - European Pagan

King Seamus I

Diplomacy: Lienster (a)

Seamus I, Ruler of the Emerald Isle and the Green People, looked out at the great expanse of the Celtic Sea. He realized that to reach out to the world from his perch in the middle of Ocean, he must have a place from which to rule. So he moved the center of his Kingdom to the shores of the Celtic Sea. The site he choose was close to the shallows of a river, so that he could easily cross in the shallows were he needed to head North quickly. Over time, more and more people came to pay homage and set up their shops and markets. Soon the small governmental village was a true city. The King named it Waterford.

While overseeing the building of the city, Seamus and the Queen were blessed with a daughter. Unfortunately, the Queen bled heavily after the birth. She recovered, but was always frail, ever after. Three miscarriages were to follow, until finally, the Queen had a fourth miscarriage and began bleeding again. She died within two hours.

Seamus I sent his war general, Liam, with his two sons to talk to the peoples on the other side of the island. By maintaining a constant presence in the camps of the Lienster chief, they were able to secure an alliance with the region. Seamus' one concern was the growing apathy towards learning. It seems that the young people were not learning the ways of the Green Tribe. He would have to address this issue soon.

THE KINGDOM OF CATALONIA - African Pagan

King Pandro

Diplomacy: Aragon (ne), Languedoc (ne)

King Pedro was a very pious man. He and his wife prayed to the Gods, especially those associated with the Earth and all things living. But Pedro also knew that he must govern his nation as best he could. So he conducted a census, and set about ensuring the safety of the country. He and his wife, another avid follower of the Nature Gods, were travelling the countryside in year 4, when they were waylayed by bandits. They had been travelling without the usual retinues to get closer with the Earth, unburdened by the fetters of running Catalonia. Both were killed in the scuffle that followed. When news reached Pandro that he was now King, he was in the homeland. He continued at govern the country, but now as King. He was blessed with a son, although his wife passed away suddenly a year later.

On the diplomatic front, things did not go well for Catalonia. Poncho, a trusted lieutenant, spent a number of years in Aragon, but despite the time spent, he could not get the region to agree to any relationship with Catalonia. Prince Puncho went off to the ignorant peoples of Languedoc. While he spent a good amount of time there, he could not get around the fact that these infidels followed the twisted ways of the European Pantheon. The religious differences made it apparent that the only way that Languedoc would become part of Catalonia, would be at the point of a sword.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GRANADA - African Pagan

King Alphonso

Diplomacy: Murcia (ne), New Castille (t)

King Alphonso gathered his forces and built up his army. He then settled in and waited. For what is unclear, as time passed peacefully. The only interesting occurence was the arrival of a message from the East. King Pedro I of Catalonia wished to open trade between the two Kingdoms. King Alphonso decided to wait and contemplate the offer.

He sent his son, Sanchez on a diplomatic tour of the surrounding regions. He did not spend significant time in Murcia, and did not show any interest in the local people or their ways. Subsequently, the natives were not interested in signing any treaty with Granada. But upon arriving in New Castille, he tried a different approach. He talked with several lower level officials before he met with the ruler of New Castille. He learned a good deal about the issues most pertinent to the region. He was able to solidify New Castille as a tributary of Granada. This new style of diplomacy will likely serve him well in the future.

Unfortunately, King Alphonso had not taken into account the fact that New Castille was so far from Granada. Prince Sanchez immediately noted that there was talk about the wisdom of being under the rule of a King so far away. Yet in the end, the region remained with Granada... for now. In fact, there were even rumblings in Andalusia. A local noble was overheard saying that Alphonso had better take control of the situation soon, or the nation could fracture.
 

IMPERIAL REPUBLIC OF ROME (Previously The Kingdom of Campania) - African Pagan

King Romulus

Diplomacy: Tuscany (ea)

King Romulus ordered a number of things done. First, he formally changed the name of his nation to something more awe inspiring, The Imperial Republic of Rome. Next, he ordered the constuction of a port city for which his nation was named. The constuction of the city went very quickly. It seemed that Rome was built overnight (some even said a day...). He also ordered his son and heir, I. Claudius, to tour the region of Latium. Vinceni was sent to Sicily to open talks about trade in the future. He was told to also gather some information about the Sicilians if possible, but the Sicilian King kept him talking for most of his stay.

Lastly, the King had Mark, his able lieutenant, go to the people of Tuscany and discuss a closer relationship with the IRR. Mark was extremely successful, and the Tuscans agreed to strong economic ties with the nation.

The Queen gave birth to a son in year 1, but died unexpectedly during a second pregnancy.
 

THE DUCHY OF LOMBARDY - European Pagan

King Hubrecht

Diplomacy: Verona (t), Liguria (fa), Provence (c)

The Duchy of Lombardy was ruled by a wise man in King Hubrecht. He realized that his nation was in a prime position to be a dominant force in the region. To this end, he sent representatives to several surrounding region. Across the Alps, he was able to lay claim to the region of Provence, and to the South, the Lord of Liguria swore an oath of fealty to Hubrecht. He even sent his son and heir, Petrik to Verona, and arranged his marriage to a Princess of Verona. He spent a good deal of time discussing Verona's relationship to Lombardy with both the leader of Verona and his brother. These Prince Petrik and these two gentlemen (of Verona) came to an agreement. Verona would become a tributary of Lombardy.

Meanwhile, in Lombardy, the King successfully took stock of his people and focussed on domestic affairs. His wife gave birth to twins (a boy and a girl), but died two days later from uncontrolled bleeding.
 

 THE KINGDOM OF MORROCO - African Pagan

King Hamir

Diplomacy: Zirid (c), Algeria (nt), Cheliff (nt)

King Hamir focussed his energy on improving and expanding his Kingdom. He personally oversaw the taking of a census throughout the land, then began construction of a city, Tingis, on the Gades. He then sent his leaders to bring more lands under the sway of Morroco.

Prince Momar, heir to the Morrocan crown, travelled over the mountains to Zirid. Here, he was able to lay a claim on these lands, but no more. His brother, Prince Faisal, travelled to Algeria. Initially, talks were not going well. Faisal could not win the trust of the local Sheiks. But when Sicilian pirates were seen off the coast, it was Faisal who suggested hiding all the gold and valuables and not to put up a fight. For he knew that the Sicilians were likely to strike quickly then withdraw. His plan worked, and the Sicilians left with no spoils. The Sheik of Algeria was pleased with the aid Faisal provided, and agreed to a minimal association with the Morrocans. Lord Abbas had similar success in Cheliff.

King Hamir felt that his initial work was good. His only saddness over the past five years was the loss of his wife during the delivery of his daughter.
 

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF SICILY - African Pagan

King Amherst

Diplomacy: Calabria (hs), Algeria (hs)

King Amherst looks out from his Island Kingdom and sees the vast expanse of the Med extending out from his nation. It is only a question of where to strike. He sends his able bodied admiral, Arcan, to raid the Algerian coast. Arcan took the his navy and crossed The Bay of Tunis. He quickly anchored his ships and ordered the sailors into boats to grab whatever they could from the natives. Despite not meeting significant resistance, he came away with nothing other than the emnity of the Algerians. As he sailed away from Algeria, he thought, "Damn! If only I had more men, I may have been able to round up some gold".

Arcan then sailed to Calabria, where he spent about a year negotiating with the local leadership. Perhaps it was the strong naval presence, or simply that Arcan did not spend much time with the Calabrians, but after a particularly heated exchange, the Calabrian Lord ordered his men to rally behind him, as he made an attempt to storm the ships moored in the bay. Despite feeling that he would likely defeat the Calabrians, Arcan knew that to risk the Sicilian navy in useless combat would anger his King. He was able to calm the Calabrian Noble, and avoid a violent conflict. As he sailed away from Calabria, he thought, "Damn! If only I had more time, I may have been able to negotiate better".

Back in Sicily, King Amherst ably ruled his realm. He was able to oversee both the construction of the City of Syracuse, and the taking of a census. Moreover, he realized that with a strong capital, his nation would greatly benefit. For this reason, he restructured his government to reflect Syracuse as a true seat of power. The only misfortune to befall the King was the loss of his dear wife. A representative from the Imperial Republic of Rome visited the Island, telling of the IRR's plans to build a great city on the water, and he hoped to open trade in the future between their nations. The IRR representative, Vinceni, made several requests to tour the region of Latium and visit the various sites, but King Amherst kept him busy discussing their future trade.
 

THE CHILDREN OF THE NILE - African Pagan

Queen Amohsis

Diplomacy: Sinai (nt); Petra (pt, then revolts, aw), Levant (pt, then revolts, aw), Jordan (p, then revolts)

Queen Amohsis felt the time was right. She sent secret messages to the Kings of Mesopotamia and Carchemish (previously Allepo). A plan was made. The Queen sent Princess Nekhbet to Sinai to negotiate with the local chieftains. She was able to gain a non-paying tribute from the region, but more importantly she gained passage for the Nile army. And so in the early part of year 1, the Queen rode through Sinai at the command of a column of over 4000 infantry, while Princess Khepri led around 2500 cavalry. They descended on Petra and before the end of the year, had made them a pacified tributary. The Queen's army had minimal casualties, and most deserters were rounded up and returned to their units.

The Queen had also sent a raiding party of warships to terrorize several regions of the Med. The commander, Karamat gathered the Nile warships and set sail for a whirlwind tour of the Med. Their first (and last) stop was in Levant. In fact, the raiding party arrived a mere 6 months before the rest of the Queen's forces. Initially they were successful at gathering all the valuables they could take, but when they began raiding for slaves, the local populance rose up. Given that Karamat had only a meager number of warships, and the entire raiding party consisted of the sailors who were not well trained in land combat, they were wiped out. More significantly, Karamat was killed.

The army pressed on into Levant, where it met the combined armies of Mesopotamia and Carchemish. They fell upon the Jewish region and easily overtook it, suffering no losses, although Prince Mago of Carchemish was injured when he took a rock thrown by a young Levant boy wielding a sling. This region also became tributized to the Children of the Nile.

But the conquest was not yet at an end. The three armies then proceeded to invade the Kingdom of Jordan. For the first time, the Queen faced a formidible foe, but badly outnumbered and with the Queen's tactical knowledge, Jordan fell to the allied armies. The Queen and Princess returned home to much celebration at the end of year 4.

Upon returning home, the Queen punctuated her many victories by giving birth to twin boys in the year 5. The heiress, Princess Khepri did not stay any length of time in the homeland, but pushed on to Ad'Diffah to pursue a promised political wedding. Unfortunately, the trip through the desert took her so long, that she only arrived in the region at the end of year 5. Around this time, word returned that the region of Jordan had revolted! The garrison held out for 3 months, but eventually succumbed, losing 80% of its number. The remainder of the troops disserted. It seems that while Queen Amohsis was off fighting, no one was left to govern the nation. Soon word came that the other two conquests had also revolted from the Queen's control. The Queen's rage will likely become the seed of legends in times to come.
 

THE KINGDOM OF THINIS - African Pagan

King Tut

Diplomacy: none; Aswan (p)

King Tut wished to expand his nations borders. So he gave the order for Keops, his son and heir, to gather the forces of Thinis and invade Aswan. Keops brought together a modest army of a few thousand cavalry, mostly light, and about 1000 infantry. He then proceeded to cross the Nile River to enter the desert. As his men marched across the hot sand, he recalled how much he hated the dryness of the desert. It was difficult to keep the men (and their horses) hydrated and fed. In fact, the journey took several months longer than anticipated. But having arrived in Aswan, the Thinis army met the tribes of Aswan, who had mustered to block their conquest. The Aswan army was only 2400 strong, and while mainly cavalry, was 2/3 light. It seems that the Aswan tribes may have been better fighters than the men of Thinis, but Keops was a good commander, and he had numbers on his side. Over the course of a month, they succeeded in pacifying the region. The army of Thinis took only 600 casualties. Now Keops was faced with a difficult task. How to garrison Aswan. For King Tut had wanted him to proceed to the South and make more conquests. Yet the desert was wide, and required cavalry to keep it from revolting. By the time he had settled a garrison in place, he realized that he would not have enough troops to continue the march, let alone garrison any further regions. He decided to stay in Aswan.

King Tut remained in the homeland with his other son and his general. His wife, unfortunately passed away in year 1 while giving birth to Tut's son. The son survived. The King also decided that his people needed more structure. Each person would be able to be more productive if they knew exactly where they belonged in the social structure. He began efforts to make this happen.

THE KINGDOM OF IFE - African Pagan

King Krulda, Lord of the Niger

Diplomacy: Oyo (ne), Yoruba (hs), Togo (aw), Kwararafa (nt)

King Krulda met with his warchief, Gimbasi. The King has decided that the Great Kingdom must expand. To do so will require three things, a capital city, more land, and more slaves. To this end, he orders Gimbasi to gather a raiding party and set out to the wilderness in the East, while he courts the peoples in the West. He also begins construction on a new city in Ife.

The King begins his diplomatic meetings in Oyo, slightly upriver from Ife. While they seem receptive to his words, they are somewhat put off by his rushing away after only a brief stay. The tribes in Oyo decide not to commit one way or the other to their Southern neighbor. Unfortunately for King Krulda, this was the most successful stop in his travels. For upon arrival to Yoruba, he immediately had difficulties with the language of the natives. Again, he stayed only briefly, as the local chieftain made it very clear that he would rather be boiled alive than join the nation of Ife. In his final attempt, he went to Togo. While the Togans spoke a similar language, their customs were distinctly different. When King Krulda offered a hearty belch at the end of the meal (a sign of high praise in Ife), immediately there was silence at the feasting table. The Togan chief, immediately called for his axe, and issued a challenge to King Krulda. The King, while not understanding how he had offended, took up the challenge. The fight was bloody and long. While King Krulda eventually slew the Togan King, he had received a deep gash on the shoulder. Realizing that the negotiations were at an end, he immediately withdrew back to Ife to look after his nation. He hoped that his warchief had better luck. After further thought, he realizes that he should either take more time to learn local customs or bring gifts to smooth over negotiations.

He was happy to see that the great city of North Gate was nearing completion, and that his eldest son had taken over control of the construction. Surely this was a sign of great things to come.

Gimbasi had little success initially as well. For while he was able to gather his forces, and move to the East, his warriors found Teke and Douala difficult areas to slave raid. The land was not very developed, and the natives were scarce and widely separated. After several months, they were unable to gather any slaves, although they met no organized resistance. Gimbasi returned home empty handed. But he then traveled to Kwararafa, where he was able to secure some connection to this region.

The final concern for King Krulda is that he has heard rumors that several of the clanchiefs on the East side of Benin were agitating about leaving the nation. Krulda realized that the Niger is wide, and the long arm of his rule, may not be as long as he thought. Both Benin and Kwararafa are content... for now.
 

THE KINGDOM OF SONGHAI - African Pagan

King Mansa Mansa

Diplomacy: Gorouol (ea)

King Mansa Mansa decided that to adequately run his kingdom, he must know what he has under his rule. Gone are the days of his father where a king could merely look out across the plain and know that he owns all that he can see. For Afashi's kingdom already stretched further than his most distant view. He therefore began an organized accounting of his people and their possessions. That being done, he gathered his army about him and went into the Eastern lands of the Gorouol tribes. Here he spend several years, negotiating with the local tribal chiefs. In the end, the tribes of Gorouol agree to become economically linked to the Kingdom, and Mansa Mansa secures a local bride for his son, Mansa Masu.

Mansa Masu took his new wife home to Songhai and went about the daily activities of running the kingdom for his father. But in the first two years of his marriage, both joy and tragedy struck. For his wife gave birth in their first year of marraige to a lovely daughter, but during a second delivery a year later, his beautiful wife and unborn baby died. Mansa Masu mourned with his nation, and took what solace he could in his eldest daughter.

ISI List for Turn 00001
 

#  Nation Name                MSI    ESI   Player Name     TV    EMail Address

1  Duchy of Lombardy          59.7    4    D. Salter       0.3   salterdj@aol.com
2  Kingdom of Greece          55.9   11    R. Otts         0.3   robertotts@yahoo.com
3  Island Kingdom of Java     49.8   21    J. Chacon       0.3   globales1@hotmail.com
4  Daughters of the Nile      49.2   35    M. Holy         0.3   holyman@blight.com
5  Kingdom of Bavaria         48.0    5    M. Stadermann   2.1   staderma@email.unc.edu
6  Kingdom of Durham          48.1   26    J. Browning     0.3   jb@syclone.net
7  UTFP                       46.7   32    N. Inglis       1.0   QCBC@optusnet.com.au
8  Kingdom of Troy            46.2   24    M. Bailey       1.3   mbailey@juniper.net
9  Kingdom of Thinis          45.7   29    M. Gagne        0.7   grallon@hotmail.com
10 Imperial Republic of Rome  44.9    8    M. Helmsing     0.9   helmsing@coredcs.com
11 Conclave of the Ganges     44.1    1    R. Miles        0.7   rmiles@dellnet.com
12 Jade Dragon                41.2   17    K. Ditto        0.9   shadowkitsune@earthlink.net
13 Kingdom of Thrace          40.0   31    B. Terry        0.9   amajaral@aol.com
14 Kingdom of Lorraine        39.8    6    T. Finton       0.7   khan_tim@yahoo.com
15 Morrocan Kingdom           39.1   20    B. Karn         0.9   waywatcher@sprynet.com
16 Jinn Dynasty               39.2    2    T. Joyce        0.7   joyce_tim@hotmail.com
17 Kingdom of Edrosia         38.2   30    E. Morgan       0.3   solar_imperium@usa.net
18 Gaur Nation                37.8    9    J. Marshall     0.3   james.f.marshall@gte.net
19 Kingdom of Ife             38.4   18    L. McGuchen     0.9   liam_mcgucken@focusedE.com
20 Kingdom of France          36.7   28    C. Caliano      0.3   Khaosra@aol.com
21 Empire of the Sun          35.7   19    C. von Albrecht 0.3   sdobbyns@aol.com
22 Kingdom of Catalonia       34.7   27    J. Cochran      0.3   jcochran@unique-software.com
23 Pandyan Kingdom            35.0   34    A. Novak        0.9   dreux2@home.com
24 Kingdom of Khemer          34.2   14    W. Rawson       0.9   William_Rawson@vanguard.com
25 Kingdom of Mesopotamia     33.2   25    P. Flinton      1.8   pflinton_lords34@hotmail.com
26 Kingdom of Avalon          32.7   13    D. Vulcan       0.7   erekose@erinet.com
27 Kingdom of Carchemish      31.8    7    E. Allen        1.0   tgroove@earthlink.net
28 Island Kingdom of Rhodes   31.0   23    A. Inglis       0.9   alex_i@optusnet.com.au
29 Kingdom of Songhai         30.8    3    J. Ceder        0.7   ceder@pophost.eunet.be
30 Green Tribe                29.9   37    R. Olexsak      1.1   sakzilla@uswest.net
31 Kingdom of Granada         30.2   22    L. Vanderlinden 0.3   loganv87@hotmail.com
32 Kara-Khitai Kingdom        29.1   33    D. Inglis       1.8   pugslote@yahoo.com.au
33 Kingdom of Persia          27.0   10    D. van Tassel   1.8   donv@bcn.net
34 Island Kingdom of Sicily   25.5   15    D. Patterson    0.9   dpatterson@computertech.com
35 Jordanian Kingdom          21.6   38    K. Larsen       0.3   klarsen@azstarnet.com
36 Kingdom of Kilotsk         21.8   12    B. Carter       0.3   revmidni@home.com
37 Kingdom of the Svear       15.4   16    J. Morrison     1.3   rebel@blclinks.net
38 Kingdom of Alba            14.8   36    L. Colmar       0.7   lorne@lcolmar.freserve.co.uk